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Jan 25, 2009

Homemade Granola Bars

When I saw these on Pennies on a Platter, I knew I had to make them. James is a granola bar eater. He always has been and he probably always will be. I feel like I am constantly buying him more granola bars! I, on the other hand, am not a granola bar lover. I don't know what it is. I think it's all the chewing. It makes my jaw hurt and it's just not worth it. :) I know they are convenient, but whatever. Not my favorite.

Anyway. In an effort to make more of our food, especially snack food, homemade...I thought I better make these.

I had most of the ingredients. I just had to purchase wheat germ and I omitted some other items.

The bars came together quickly and easily. I tried one and they were pretty good. We'll have to wait for James' verdict since I made them for him.

Oh, I also added chocolate chips to make them more Rachel-Friendly but duh, I added them when the ingredients were hot, so they all melted. Next time, I will wait for the mixture to cool just slightly and then add them.

Directions1. Preheat the oven to 350˚F.2. Butter an 8 x 12-inch baking dish and line it with parchment paper. (I used a 9 x 13 pan.)3. Toss the oatmeal, almonds, and coconut together on a sheet pan and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Transfer the mixture to a large mixing bowl and stir in the wheat germ.4. Reduce the oven temperature to 300˚F.5. Place the butter, honey, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat.6. Cook and stir for a minute, then pour over the toasted oatmeal mixture.7. Add the dates, apricots, and cranberries and stir well.8. Pour the mixture into the prepared pan. Wet your fingers and lightly press the mixture evenly into the pan.9. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until light golden brown. Cool for at least 2 to 3 hours before cutting into squares. Serve at room temperature.